Manchester United ‘make proposal’ to Real Sociedad for 22-year-old

According to Don Balon, Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has ‘made a proposal’ to Real Sociedad for Álvaro Odriozola. The 22-year-old has been identified as a long-term replacement for Antonio Valencia at Old Trafford, but Real Madrid could throw a spanner in the works.

Los Blancos are reportedly also interested in the Spanish defender and want to lure him to the Santiago Bernabéu this summer. However, Odriozola might be turned off by the idea as he’d be in direct competition with Dani Carvajal for a starting place in the side next season.

At United, he stands a far better chance of getting regular playing time, something he grown used to at Sociedad, which may be a big factor upon choosing his next destination. The right-back rose through the youth ranks to the first-team in 2017 and has already made 57 appearances in all competitions.

Last season, Odriozola made 35 Liga appearances, making four assists. He averaged a tackle and interception every 43 minutes, created 46 chances and only gave away one foul every 116 minutes. If Mourinho is looking for an attacking full-back who can marry his defensive responsibilities well, Odriozola could be the perfect signing.